Pregnancy, Postpartum and TH2 dominance

After speaking to many women who develop histamine intolerance/MCAS after having children- especially multiple, I felt it was time to dedicate a post to this.

Pregnancy brings on so many changes within a woman's body, we don't often think about how it affects her immune system.

The human body is so intelligent that it makes these changes immediately upon conception so the mothers body doesn't reject or harm the fetus.

Did you know that after implantation your histamine levels increase? They are highest during the first trimester (got morning sickness- blame histamine!). The uterine lining and placenta have a lot of mast cells which increase histamine.

If you've already had histamine issues prior to pregnancy, it can unfortunately make it worse since we know digestion slows down as well as your liver's ability to detoxify.

After giving birth, we know your hormones drop significantly, especially progesterone which helps your body produce more DAO, the enzyme to break down histamine.

In addition, your body will remain in the TH2 dominant state until you address the underlying root causes which initially filled your histamine bucket like mold, parasites, Lyme, SIBO...etc.

Combine this with lack of sleep that comes with a newborn, lackluster nutrition and constant stress which all inhibit you getting control of your histamine symptoms and getting your gut health back on track.

I personally know how difficult it can be to prioritize health post baby, so cut yourself a break and just make small changes where it's possible.

Keep in mind, breastfeeding will limit what you are able to do for detoxing, but some great safe options for liver support are castor oil packs, dandelion tea, bitters tincture, as well as continuing to support the lymphatics with dry brushing or rebounding, and most importantly, nap when you can!